2010 Quivet Cellars Syrah Las Madres Vineyard (USA, California, Napa Valley, Carneros)

Pretty amber color with purple tinged edges. Wonderful blue fruits on the nose, fresh squeezed and bright blueberries being prominent; very pretty indeed. Palate has a creamy light weight feel that feels so good without dinner, but the inch thick ribs eyes should be just about right later in the afternoon. Complicated but approachable style of Cali Syrah I really find myself gravitating toward in my advanced drinking years (30+). There perfectly fragrant crushed blueberry, blackberry and boysenberry with a hint of flint, flowers and white pepper. Nicely balanced with a tamed tannins and nothing amiss. A magnetic Syrah with loads of elegance and joy. Finish remains true but I really need to mention that creaminess again, just for the record. You would be hard pressed to find a better cool climate Syrah at this pricepoint. I do prefer this style to the Myriad. Time top reload. 94 pts

2010 Rivers-Marie Pinot Noir Gioia Vineyard (USA, California, Sonoma County, Sonoma Coast)

Strawberry color with a nose macerated bright red strawberries, pomegranate and spring flowers---pretty great. Palate reveals soft gushy red berry fruits with creamy textured mouthfeel. Acidity rides slightly up-ticks (fantastic food friendliness on this) with tannins being slightly chewy. A wonderful structure controls the second part of the journey which goes from easy to corral to a wild unbreakable maverick. Intoxicating notes of soft coco infused strawberries come out at the half-way mark in addition to some nice minerality and sassparilla. Finish is long and remains focused. Glad I have more. 93 pts